Proper bullet diameter

[EOD3]

I've got a new 38-55 with a .378-ish bore. What would the proper bullet diameter be for both hard cast and swagged?

Before you ask, this was the result of my search'''


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[johnly]

I'd be trying something 0.380" or larger. The Lee mold casts bullets large enough to size down to this diameter. My RCBS and Lyman molds drop bullets in the .376 to .378" range, so you'll need something different to match up to your bore.

John

[Bret4207]

First and foremost- Forget the "hardcast" sales hype. 2nd go for a finished diameter .002+ larger than bore or as large as your throat will accept.

[montana_charlie]

I have no first-hand knowledge about this, but I understand there are 38-55's that have this problem...
The chamber (or perhaps the freebore) is too small in diameter to take a bullet large enough to fill the groove diameter.
A chamber cast would let you see the whole picture...not just the groove size...to help you pick a mould.
CM

[EOD3]

Thanks guys

LaserCast offers a 240 grain .380 that's at the top of my smokeless list. I haven't convinced myself that I have the time to cast, load, and shoot. :-?